Former Malaysian prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad returned to the public eye on Tuesday (Oct 13), appearing in noticeably better health and spirits.

On his social media accounts, Dr Mahathir's office shared photographs of him attending a memorial service (Tahlil) for the late Dr Siti Hasmah, held at the Perdana Leadership Foundation in Putrajaya.

He was also seen reviewing documents in his office at the foundation.

The six-picture post received over 6,000 reactions within 90 minutes of publication, with many Malaysians expressing relief at seeing Dr Mahathir looking healthier and wishing him well.

"May Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad continue to be blessed with good health, spiritual strength, and peace of mind in facing the trials of life," wrote Facebook user Shamsulfahmi Shamsudin.

Jenny Marisa Lim said: "People may love or hate you, but people will pray for you and your family."

Malaysian actress Umie Aida, 53, who was also present at the foundation, shared a video showing a more energetic Dr Mahathir interacting with her daughter, Nur Aisya Humaira.

In the video, the centenarian was all smiles and even playfully pretended to be surprised when Aisya gave him a peck on the cheek.

Umie wrote: "This is the face and spirit we have been missing...Despite such a great loss, today we look back at the light of strength on the face of someone we love so much. There are tears, gratitude and happiness that are difficult to express."

Dr Mahathir underwent routine treatment at the Malaysia National Heart Institute after Dr Siti Hasmah was buried. 

When he was discharged three days after her death, photographs of a frail-looking Dr Mahathir sparked concerns about his health.

Dr Siti Hasmah died at the age of 100 at about 9.20am on Sept 28. She married Dr Mahathir in 1956.

They have seven children, including former Kedah chief minister Mukhriz Mahathir.

She was accorded a state funeral before being laid to rest at the National Mausoleum.

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editor@asiaone.com